Stand on the edge of the wetland
as the sun sinks slowly on the horizon
and the clouds burn a color that water
does not recognize at any other time of day.
Watch as the flocks of ibis and egrets
circle lazily then suddenly dive
at odd angles onto desired perches
on the bushes awaiting their arrival.
The Great Egret standing tall
on the snag watches, bemused,
and seeing you awestruck calls out
“do not try this at home,” laughing
at the flightless creatures only wishing
they were not bound to the earth.
Listen as the Snail Kites discuss the day
in the raspy voices of old men,
and the response of the Gallinules
whose laughter bring a smile
to your face despite your sour mood.
Watch carefully as the light fades
and the symphony is played
by an orchestra you can no longer see.
Return tomorrow for the show runs
nightly, always slightly different even if
the cast remains largely the same.